Microsoft has released Windows 2008 for public beta testing. You can get a copy of Beta 3 by going here
Currently the most intriguing development to me is that virtualization will be included with the operating system. Here is an excerpt about these developments from Microsoft:
-With its built-in server virtualization technology, Windows Server 2008 enables you to reduce costs, increase hardware utilization, optimize your infrastructure, and improve server availability.
-Built-in virtualization to virtualize multiple operating systems—Windows, Linux and others—on a single server. With virtualization built into the operating system and with simpler, more flexible licensing policies, it’s now easier than ever to take advantage of all the benefits and cost savings of virtualization.
-Centralized application access and seamless integration of remotely published applications. Improvements also add the ability to connect to remote applications across firewalls and without the use of a VPN, so you can quickly respond to the needs of your users, regardless of their location.
-New deployments options to provide the most suitable method for your environment.
I have not started playing with 2008, but I would imagine that any virtualization technology they include will be pale in comparison to what VMWare offers. It will be interesting to see if there are any improvements that are not yet seen in the Microsoft Virtual Server product.